Sometimes barren trees make me sad. But then I remember spring and the buds that will soon form on the trees, and it makes me smile. Yes, it’s winter. The stretch after Christmas is the hardest for me to take. But knowing that spring is coming makes me smile. Buds, birds, butterflies. Flowers, rain showers and green grass.

What a picture of the sadness the disciples felt when Christ was buried…and the heights of joy they experienced when they saw Him risen. It’s Friday but Sunday’s coming. The cross didn’t have the last word. The tomb is empty and death is conquered. We are victors in Christ, for his victory is ours! Winter is not the final word – eternal spring is on the way.

Neal Dearyan is an estate design specialist. He’d be happy to send you a complimentary Guide to Planning Your Estate. You can reach him at 847-479-1124 or neal@victoryingrace.org